8 answers
Nadia
Student
Monterey, Massachusetts
5
Questions
Updated
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How do you end up working outside?
I like to be outside in nature, and I think a place like a national or state park would allow me to help others while also enjoying what I do. How do I get there from high school?
#nationalparks #stateparks
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8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1364
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Nadia, park rangers must have a bachelor's degree in forest sciences, natural resources and conservation or wildlife management and can obtain voluntary certification to make themselves more marketable. It is important for park naturalists to have good communication and reasoning skills and, most importantly, a love of nature.
BECOMING A PARKS RANGER
Park rangers work directly with the public to educate individuals about the environment. They must be knowledgeable about park history, features, and attractions in order to address visitor needs and provide information. Park rangers conduct tours of the grounds and serve as protectors of government property. Working in all types of weather conditions is required, and naturalists may sometimes have to deal with demanding or difficult park visitors. Park rangers have a full-time workweek during typical business hours.
STEP 1.) EARN YOUR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE – Holding a bachelor's degree in such a major as environmental or biological sciences, forestry, wildlife management, or natural resources is usually required of park naturalists. A large part of this job involves publicly interacting with people, so coursework in communications and public speaking would be beneficial. Coursework within an undergraduate program may include parks administration and planning programs, recreation and tourism, and leadership skills.
STEP 2.) COMPLETE AN INTERNSHIP – Park employers prefer candidates with previous experience in the field, so aspiring park naturalists can benefit from volunteering or interning at parks or conservation areas. These experiences will also aid in developing valuable industry contacts. Additionally, an internship or apprenticeship helps qualify individuals for the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, which requires one to five years of experience, depending on the applicant's education level.
STEP 3.) BECOME CERTIFIABLE – The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers a program for voluntary certification as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Being certified as a CPRP demonstrates to potential employers that the professional has the education, expertise, and experience to work in the industry. While it's not mandatory, it's not uncommon for parks and recreation agencies to look for applicants who are certified. Eligibility requirements are based on several factors, including a combination of education and work experience.
STEP 4.) APPLY YOURSELF – Park rangers most commonly work for government-affiliated parks and recreation offices, so being interested in nature can serve as a stepping-stone to this career path. From participating in outdoor recreation and hiking to observing nature and wildlife, many park naturalists have a strong desire to work in the industry. Individuals with a background in activism or an interest in preserving the environment might also find working as a park naturalist to be a fulfilling career. Job opportunities vary by region and by funds allotted to aiding parks and recreation programs and facilities.
Imagine being paid to lead kayak tours amidst glaciers, or to serve drinks in a cozy cabin in a world renowned national park with birds chirping in the distance. It may sound like a dream, but for many, this is just another day in a seasonal national park job in the United States. Luckily, such work doesn’t have to be a fantasy – you can do it, too Nadia!
Hope this was Helpful Nadia
BECOMING A PARKS RANGER
Park rangers work directly with the public to educate individuals about the environment. They must be knowledgeable about park history, features, and attractions in order to address visitor needs and provide information. Park rangers conduct tours of the grounds and serve as protectors of government property. Working in all types of weather conditions is required, and naturalists may sometimes have to deal with demanding or difficult park visitors. Park rangers have a full-time workweek during typical business hours.
STEP 1.) EARN YOUR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE – Holding a bachelor's degree in such a major as environmental or biological sciences, forestry, wildlife management, or natural resources is usually required of park naturalists. A large part of this job involves publicly interacting with people, so coursework in communications and public speaking would be beneficial. Coursework within an undergraduate program may include parks administration and planning programs, recreation and tourism, and leadership skills.
STEP 2.) COMPLETE AN INTERNSHIP – Park employers prefer candidates with previous experience in the field, so aspiring park naturalists can benefit from volunteering or interning at parks or conservation areas. These experiences will also aid in developing valuable industry contacts. Additionally, an internship or apprenticeship helps qualify individuals for the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, which requires one to five years of experience, depending on the applicant's education level.
STEP 3.) BECOME CERTIFIABLE – The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers a program for voluntary certification as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Being certified as a CPRP demonstrates to potential employers that the professional has the education, expertise, and experience to work in the industry. While it's not mandatory, it's not uncommon for parks and recreation agencies to look for applicants who are certified. Eligibility requirements are based on several factors, including a combination of education and work experience.
STEP 4.) APPLY YOURSELF – Park rangers most commonly work for government-affiliated parks and recreation offices, so being interested in nature can serve as a stepping-stone to this career path. From participating in outdoor recreation and hiking to observing nature and wildlife, many park naturalists have a strong desire to work in the industry. Individuals with a background in activism or an interest in preserving the environment might also find working as a park naturalist to be a fulfilling career. Job opportunities vary by region and by funds allotted to aiding parks and recreation programs and facilities.
Imagine being paid to lead kayak tours amidst glaciers, or to serve drinks in a cozy cabin in a world renowned national park with birds chirping in the distance. It may sound like a dream, but for many, this is just another day in a seasonal national park job in the United States. Luckily, such work doesn’t have to be a fantasy – you can do it, too Nadia!
Hope this was Helpful Nadia
Thank you for your answer John, this certainly helped give me a better idea of what I need to do.
Nadia
Your Welcome Nadia, it was my Pleasure. If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. If you want to touch the future, touch a life.
Doc Frick
Thank You Krissy. “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn
Doc Frick
Casey Hinds
Manufacturing Supervisor
8
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Casey’s Answer
Get started by volunteering outside through a local trail organization - looks like you are on the East Coast which means you are close to the Appalachian Trail! Check out this website for volunteering opportunities : https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/
Once you start volunteering, you can talk to your fellow volunteers about what careers they have chosen and why - I'm sure there will be more than a few outside.
My good friend majored in Geophysics in college and now works at the Minnesota Geological Survey - a lot of her job is outside surveying different land, bridge, and structures to see how sound/stable they are. Something to consider!
Once you start volunteering, you can talk to your fellow volunteers about what careers they have chosen and why - I'm sure there will be more than a few outside.
My good friend majored in Geophysics in college and now works at the Minnesota Geological Survey - a lot of her job is outside surveying different land, bridge, and structures to see how sound/stable they are. Something to consider!
Hi Casey, thank you for the advice! The AT runs right through my town, and I enjoy hiking it often. I will definitely look into that.
Nadia
Larry Harsch
Purchasing Manager
6
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Consider getting started now through volunteering, or if you are lucky, get a job at a parks and recreation for a city or with a national park if you are lucky enough to live near one. There is the Department of Recreation for the state. You have to do your research and network. Find what inspires you and work toward the education you will need to obtain that position. A good friend of mine worked with me at a golf course when we were young through the local parks and recreation. He now manages a gold course. But first, you have to find what, outdoors, you want to do.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1667
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Nadia,
I think there's a lot more to being outside than just the parks! This includes construction, electrical lineman (line person), police officer, camp staff (usually seasonal though), cruise ship, environmental researcher, etc. I don't want to sound negative, but. . . the parks are being overrun with people, and your time for communing with nature while working in a parks position may not be all that much! If you work somewhere remote, you'd be okay, but, otherwise, I don't know what your day would be like.
Looking at your other question, I think finding a way to pursue that would be cool! I once saw a catfish/aqua. operation. It was pretty cool! Do you have any interest in teaching? I know there are places with Outdoor Learning Classrooms. such as: https://www.seguinolc.org/ There are also jobs in aquaculture: https://www.was.org/WasEs/job/List?page=1
If you feel strongly about parks, then by all means continue to pursue it! If not, please keep your options open!
(p.s.. thanks for taking the time to research and find my old answer! We appreciate the effort!)
Kim
I think there's a lot more to being outside than just the parks! This includes construction, electrical lineman (line person), police officer, camp staff (usually seasonal though), cruise ship, environmental researcher, etc. I don't want to sound negative, but. . . the parks are being overrun with people, and your time for communing with nature while working in a parks position may not be all that much! If you work somewhere remote, you'd be okay, but, otherwise, I don't know what your day would be like.
Looking at your other question, I think finding a way to pursue that would be cool! I once saw a catfish/aqua. operation. It was pretty cool! Do you have any interest in teaching? I know there are places with Outdoor Learning Classrooms. such as: https://www.seguinolc.org/ There are also jobs in aquaculture: https://www.was.org/WasEs/job/List?page=1
If you feel strongly about parks, then by all means continue to pursue it! If not, please keep your options open!
(p.s.. thanks for taking the time to research and find my old answer! We appreciate the effort!)
Kim
Thank you Kim! I am not tied to parks, rather, I see them as something I appreciate and would find valuable supporting. I shadowed at a local state park and I could definitely see the complexity of their operations. In regards to aquaponics, it's another cause I would find rewarding to pursue, but am not tied down to it. I have considered going into education and will keep it open as an option.
Nadia
I am so glad you have shadowed at a park! Jobs are always so much different from the outside looking in! Good luck to you in all you do!
Kim Igleheart
Brian Sullivan
Retail Banking
5
Answers
Stafford, Connecticut
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi Nadia,
We have a son who is currently working his way through the National Park System. A Bachelor's degree is really recommended and you may have to start with seasonal work in different locations. The park service (nps.gov) website can provide insight on jobs, volunteer opportunities and internships.
Not sure if you are staying local or not, but check out the Springfield Armory near you. My son interned there during college and had a great experience. Not outdoors but close to history and it did expose him to the park service.
And we're out of season, but I know Butternut near you does a lot with outdoor seasonal hires. Another son of ours instructed there for a few years. Great experience also in learning to deal with people.
Good luck!
We have a son who is currently working his way through the National Park System. A Bachelor's degree is really recommended and you may have to start with seasonal work in different locations. The park service (nps.gov) website can provide insight on jobs, volunteer opportunities and internships.
Not sure if you are staying local or not, but check out the Springfield Armory near you. My son interned there during college and had a great experience. Not outdoors but close to history and it did expose him to the park service.
And we're out of season, but I know Butternut near you does a lot with outdoor seasonal hires. Another son of ours instructed there for a few years. Great experience also in learning to deal with people.
Good luck!
Hi Brian, thank you for the response! I am definitely planning on getting a Bachelor's, and I guess I'll see from there. It's encouraging to hear of someone else taking this path. I have heard of the Springfield Armory and it's something I will check out; luckily, I like history too.
Funnily enough, I have skied at Butternut my whole life and have considered working there for the past couple of years (both time lack of driving capabilities and desire to enjoy skiing have deterred me, but it still is something I would be open to.)
Nadia
Carol Staten-Clark
Sales & marketing
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Carol’s Answer
There are schools that offer Parks & Recreation curriculum. That type degree can lead you in several directions from park service to theme parks to many sorts of hospitality industry jobs.
Thank you Carol for the suggestion!
Nadia
Meghan H
Recruiter - Human Resources
4
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Meghan’s Answer
State and National Parks have a variety of volunteer and internship opportunities for high school and/or college students. These opportunities can be one-time, seasonal, or full-time. I'd suggest looking on your state's website to see what opportunities are currently available.
Seasonal work or an internship will allow you to:
- Explore different areas and help you decide if it's the right career path
- Learn new techniques and gain confidence in your experience
- Meet professionals in the field, ask questions about their career path and learn more about the industry and job opportunities
Are you only interested in working at a State or National Park, or are you open to exploring other jobs? If you're open to other outdoor jobs, maybe consider some of the following:
- Working as a Camp Counselor at a Summer Camp
- Working as a Lifeguard at an outdoor pool
- Working at a Ski Lodge (some Ski Lodges are open year-round and offer seasonal outdoor activities to guests)
https://www.mass.gov/guides/dcr-seasonal-jobs
https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Seasonal-Employment/Parks-and-Forests-Seasonal-Employment
https://parks.ny.gov/employment/
https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/outdoor-careers/
https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/workwithus.htm
Seasonal work or an internship will allow you to:
- Explore different areas and help you decide if it's the right career path
- Learn new techniques and gain confidence in your experience
- Meet professionals in the field, ask questions about their career path and learn more about the industry and job opportunities
Are you only interested in working at a State or National Park, or are you open to exploring other jobs? If you're open to other outdoor jobs, maybe consider some of the following:
- Working as a Camp Counselor at a Summer Camp
- Working as a Lifeguard at an outdoor pool
- Working at a Ski Lodge (some Ski Lodges are open year-round and offer seasonal outdoor activities to guests)
Meghan recommends the following next steps:
Suzanne Swain Brint
Nursing
169
Answers
Santa Monica, California
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Hi Nadia,
This is a really beautiful goal. I bet you want to make sure the world stays beautiful.
I am a retired nurse and worked inside all of my career, sometimes in rooms without windows! So I find your question dear to my heart.
Here are some references that I found. I think you will be very surprised by the variety of professions that will allow you to work outdoors.
Please copy and paste the links into your browser.
Once you find your career of interest, please work with your high school counselor to make sure you are taking the right classes that will lead you into the college program you need.
I hope this helps!
Sue
https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/outdoor-careers/
https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/18/15-high-paying-jobs-for-people-who-love-to-be-outside.html
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/outdoor-jobs-that-pay-well
https://hikethepla.net/top-ten-college-majors-outdoor-lovers/
This is a really beautiful goal. I bet you want to make sure the world stays beautiful.
I am a retired nurse and worked inside all of my career, sometimes in rooms without windows! So I find your question dear to my heart.
Here are some references that I found. I think you will be very surprised by the variety of professions that will allow you to work outdoors.
Please copy and paste the links into your browser.
Once you find your career of interest, please work with your high school counselor to make sure you are taking the right classes that will lead you into the college program you need.
I hope this helps!
Sue
https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/outdoor-careers/
https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/18/15-high-paying-jobs-for-people-who-love-to-be-outside.html
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/outdoor-jobs-that-pay-well
https://hikethepla.net/top-ten-college-majors-outdoor-lovers/
Hi Sue, thank you for your encouragement! I'm grateful for your support and appreciate the resources.
Nadia